Preconception and Exercise

Question:

One of my clients is trying to conceive and not having much luck. What types of exercises should be avoided during this period? The article on preconception healthcare by Janette Roberts is very good, but I would like more info on specific exercise prescription.

Answer:

When considering exercise in the preconception period, there are a few things to consider:

If new to exercise, then introduction of any exercise schedule should be gradual.

If a regular exerciser, avoid any activity that could induce over heating or that puts serious stress on the body (marathons, triathlons, prolonged/sustained aerobic).

It’s important to remember that any activity in which the male partner is involved doesn’t involve tight/hot pants that could compromise sperm health.

Yoga is a very different form of exercise and may be more suited to the situation. Yoga can induce a profound sense of calm and well being, which could be very helpful in the client who is trying to conceive. It also bestows a number of more readily measured benefits including improved fertility, improved circulation and consequently improved delivery of oxygen and other nutrients to all organs systems including the reproductive organs. Numerous yoga poses are relatively simple and can be relaxed into day by day. There are many good books and DVDs for the beginner, though the client may benefit more from attending a class where an instructor can attend to individual needs, particularly as some poses are unsuitable once pregnancy is achieved. For many individuals, work posture, general postural habits and emotional stresses may cause constriction in the pelvic cavity and lower back. Specific yoga postures can open up this whole area, greatly enhancing circulation. A little practice done every day will be more effective than a longer session once a week. The postures will benefit male as well as female fertility and reproductive health.

About the author: Janette Roberts

Jan Roberts has spent almost 40 years in the health care industry, 25 of those working in the area of women’s reproductive health. She is a pharmacist with a postgraduate diploma in Clinical Nutrition and the Australian representative for Foresight the British Association famous for its work in promoting preconception health care. As co-author of the international best selling books The Natural Way to Better Babies, Better Pregnancy, Better Birth & Bonding and BetterBreastfeeding, Jan has presented "preconception" and "wellness" workshops and seminars to the general public and health professionals around Australia and NZ since 1987. She has made frequent appearances on radio and TV and is a regular contributor to various magazines and journals. <br><br>

Jan was the co-founder of one of the first Wellness Centres in Australia, later becoming the Director of Integrative Medicine at Spa Chakra - Australia’s premier day spa where she developed programs for preconception, anti-ageing, vitality and longevity. Now as Director of Well4life, she provides educational material and complementary programs, services and products that support clients in their quest for total health and wellbeing. <br><br>